Who doesn’t want to have a long weekend to a gorgeous country and visit culturally diverse and gorgeous Christmas markets?
In this post, I do a countdown of my top 10 Christmas markets across the world. Don’t forget to check out my other posts like 20 travel safety tips, first time flying tips and why should you travel.
Disclaimer: I’m currently updating my blog and all my old posts! This post was originally written in 2019 but it has been updated in 2021. Other blog posts may not be up to date yet so please be patient.
In 10th Place – Birmingham ‘Frankfurt’s’ Christmas Markets
Known as England’s Second City, Birmingham holds a Christmas market every year from the mid November to the 23rd December – yes, that long! This year, 2019, there are 180 stalls for people to explore and enjoy. Due to the size and mass of people that go, it spreads across Victoria Square, New Market and Cenetary Square.
9th – Fira de Santa Llúcia Markets in Barcelona, Spain
In 2021, this Christmas Market is celebrating its 235th birthday. Originally held as a one day event on the 13th December, it has become to be spread out over 3 weeks. With a remarkable 282 stalls in the Gothic quarter, this place screams of culturally rich history.
8th Place – Tallinn Christmas Market in Estonia
The ‘must see’ of this Christmas market is the huge Christmas tree in the town square, which has been set up there since 1441. This market goes from mid-November into January! Although Estonia is beautiful, the locals go all out for Christmas and turn it into a breath taking sight.
7th Place – Basel, Switzerland
Basel has 3 Christmas markets – Old Town Barfüsserplatz, a new market in Münsterplatz, and a smaller market on the Rhine on Claraplatz. It is worth viewing all of these to see how culturally diverse they are! The Old Town market, consisting of 180 stalls, is known for being perfect for kids.
6th Place – Piazza Santa Croce Market in Florence, Italy
This is the biggest market in Florence! Starting in the 12th century and held in front of a gorgeous cathedral, this market is perfect for photographers. This is also known as a German market.
5th Place – Toronto Christmas Market, Canada
Toronto is the true hustle and bustle of a city with extravagant firework displays and festive lights. Although it is worth going simply for the Christmas markets here, there are so many other sights, such as the Nutcracker, and activities, like ice skating, that make you want to stay here longer.
4th Place – Winter Village at Bryant Park, New York
In Bryant Park, as soon as Halloween is over, it is time for Christmas. It is a modern market, only coming on to it’s 20th year running. It is characterised by the massive ice rink centred in the market. The annual tree lighting also occurs in the first week of December, so best not to miss that!
You can find out more about it here.
3rd Place – Vienna, Austria
This market occurs in ‘Vienna’s prettiest square’. This is the perfect market to go to in order to get into the Christmas spirit. It also screams religion with the astounding cathedral in front of the market. Quite possibly the oldest market, this stunning square has been hosting markets since 1298.
Read more about the Vienna Christmas markets here!
2nd Place – Strasbourg, France
France holds a special place in my heart, especially at Christmas time. It is practically impossible to put the beauty of France into words, and there is no particular place I recommend on visiting. Although not a Christmas market, visiting the Alps during the winter season is worth everyone’s time. The stunning scenery and numerous fun, family activities available only enhance the need to go.
Christmas market wise, I would recommend Strasbourg markets near the German border. It has a majestic tree, the true French culture and is incredibly old.
And finally in 1st Place – Berlin, Germany
There are many markets in Berlin so I recommend going to all of them!
There is a reason that German markets are copied throughout Europe, so why not go and see why? Germany itself during winter is a sight to behold, so make the most and see the beautiful trees, feel the Christmas atmosphere and become truly immersed.
And that are the top 10 Christmas markets across the world!
What do you think of this list? Are there any that you would add or change? Let me know!
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Loved seeing the diversity in locations of your list- I’ve been to the Bryant Park one & I just went to one in northern Germany but am hoping to see a few more while I live in Europe!
I had no idea there was a Christmas market in NYC! Thank you for mentioning this in your fantastic list. I may just have to plan a little road trip this month 😀
There are an awful lot of Christmas markets in the world! I’m glad they all look so pretty and offer delicious food.
Super cool! Now I’m wishing my town had something like this too 🙂
We have great ones in Prague as well, but from this list, I think I would like to see the one in Estonia
I love this article. We have a great Christmas Market in Chicago too.